Jenkins Marine have been on site at Sandbanks to recover a fixed wing plane after it crashed into the sea at Bournemouth Air Festival. The crash, involving a 1940’s Boeing ‘Super Stearman’ occurred at 3.52pm on Saturday on the way back to its base after performing.
Multi-purpose utility vessel Buffalo was despatched to the crash site outside Sandbanks Hotel at the Haven entrance and was on the scene within hours to assess the assistance required. Arrangements were also made for a dive team to help carry out the recovery of the wreckage.
Buffalo is perfectly suited to this kind of local harbour operation offering a deck crane and suitable deck space for the recovery. For these reasons she has been instrumental in many rescue and recoveries over the last few years within the local area with the use of a reliable and experienced team.
Once recovered the plane was safely discharged at the service yard at Poole Harbour Commission after authorisation was received from the Air Accidents Investigation Branch.
An AAIB spokesperson said:
“The AAIB was informed of an incident on Saturday afternoon and has launched an investigation into the circumstances. AAIB has granted permission for the aircraft to be moved to enable further examination by the owners and maintenance organisation as part of the process of conducting the investigation.”
Buffalo has since returned to more normal duties but remains present to assist with any local challenges as they occur.
Please bear in mind that the footage above is provided via YouTube.